Delivering the Royal Australian Navy’s First Deployable Additive Manufacturing Capability
Global Defence Solutions (GDS) has successfully delivered the Deployable Additive Manufacturing and Repair (DAMR) container — the Royal Australian Navy’s (RAN) first demonstration of a deployable 3D printing capability designed to support expeditionary logistics and operational sustainment.
Sponsored by the Navy Logistics and Infrastructure Branch (NLIB) under expeditionary logistics, the DAMR capability is managed through the Navy Minor Capital Program and represents a significant step forward in enhancing the RAN’s ability to rapidly manufacture and repair components closer to the point of need.
Designed and manufactured by GDS at its Nowra, NSW facility, the containerised system was developed in collaboration with Emona Instruments, who provided specialist additive manufacturing expertise and supplied the advanced 3D printing equipment integrated within the system. The capability will continue to be supported Australia-wide by both GDS and Emona Instruments.
Bringing Manufacturing Capability to the Operational Environment
The DAMR system was deployed directly into the field for its first full operational activity during Defence Exercise Talisman Sabre 2025, demonstrating its ability to provide agile manufacturing support in a demanding joint and allied operating environment.
The ruggedised container houses a complete additive manufacturing capability, including multiple 3D printers, scanning technology, design tools, and supporting equipment. This enables operators to rapidly design, prototype, and manufacture components on demand, reducing reliance on traditional supply chains and improving operational responsiveness.
Advanced Additive Manufacturing Capability
Each piece of equipment within the DAMR system has been selected to perform a specific role within the manufacturing workflow:
- Prusa Core One – supports rapid prototyping and development using single-polymer materials.
- UltiMaker Factor 4 – enables the production of high-quality, precision components using dual filament capability.
- Markforged X7 – produces high-strength components using proprietary carbon fibre-reinforced polymer materials, delivering performance comparable to traditional metal components.
- 3D scanning technology – enables operators to capture physical dimensions and convert existing components into digital models for computer-aided design and manufacturing.
Together, these technologies provide a flexible capability that supports rapid problem-solving, repair activities, and the production of mission-critical components.
Demonstrating Capability During Exercise Talisman Sabre 2025
During its first field deployment, DAMR operators demonstrated the practical application of deployable additive manufacturing by producing a range of components to support operational requirements, including communication box exoskeletons, drone controller brackets, and tent ground pegs.
These examples highlighted the potential of the DAMR system to support maritime platforms, joint operations, and future allied missions by providing a localised manufacturing capability where and when it is required.
Building the Future of Deployable Manufacturing
The DAMR capability demonstrates the growing role of additive manufacturing in improving supply chain resilience, increasing self-sufficiency, and enabling faster responses to operational challenges.
Check out the recent article from defence.gov.au/news to find out more about the DAMR container
